Serious Science with Some Fun Twists

Dynamic DNA Laboratories (or simply Dynamic DNA Labs) offers a good variety of genetic tests for ancestry, health, fitness, and even your likely responses to common medications. This company provides serious scientific testing. That being said, it does also offer some “just for fun” products such as DNA Artwork, which colorfully displays your unique DNA.

Since Dynamic DNA’s tests are so expensive, I set out to answer two key questions:

Are the tests accurate?

Are they worth the cost?

Join me on my tour of Dynamic DNA Laboratories’ tests to see if I can uncover these answers.

Taking the Test(s)

After placing your order, your test kit should arrive in three to five business days. This collection kit requires you simply to swab the inside of your cheek and then send in your sample using the prepaid mailer.

After analysis in the state-of-the-art, CAP/CLIA accredited laboratory, your results should be available to read online in less than three weeks.

A Detailed Look at Dynamic DNA’s Ancestry Tests

Dynamic DNA Labs offers three types of family and ancestry tests: two that prove paternity or kinship, and one that’s more similar to the ancestry tests offered by the likes of MyHeritage DNA and AncestryDNA.

Paternity DNA Test

This paternity test can determine if a child and father are genetically related to one another. Biological parents share certain genetic markers with their children, and this test looks to see if those genetic markers are present in both the father and the child. For this test, both parties have to submit a sample.

Features:

Easy-to-understand results

HIPAA-compliant online patient portal for confidentiality

Online tests are not admissible in court (but court-admissible tests are also available)

More expensive than many paternity testing centers

Results within two weeks

Siblingship DNA Test

Similar to paternity testing, this test looks at a broad range of genes to determine if two people are siblings or have some other close family relationship (e.g., grandparents, aunts or uncles, cousins). While the test can determine if there is a familial relationship, it will not be able to state the exact relationship. You will need to discern that based on things like age and historical records. Again, both parties have to submit a sample.

Ancestry DNA Test

Ancestry tests are not Dynamic DNA Labs’s primary focus, but its results are accurate and detailed.

This ancestry test includes the three main types of DNA heritage testing in one package: autosomal, Y-DNA (biological males only), and mtDNA. By doing this, Dynamic DNA Labs can determine your ethnic breakdown as well as your paternal (father’s side) and maternal (mother’s side) ancient migratory paths. This puts it ahead of some competitors that only test autosomal DNA.

Similar Tests to Consider

If you’re just looking for a quick paternity test, HomeDNA offers a product for a similar cost, once you factor in the separate lab fee. Plus, this test is available at common retail shops like Walmart or Walgreens.

If you’re more interested in researching your ancient paternal or maternal heritage, some companies such as FamilyTreeDNA offer Y-DNA and mtDNA tests separately. Others, such as LivingDNA, also do this kind of combined ancestry test (and at lower cost) to give a much more complete picture of overall heritage.

You won’t find genealogical services with Dynamic DNA Labs. So if you’d like help building a family tree or contacting potential relatives, you’ll have to look to MyHeritageDNA or AncestryDNA instead.

Somewhat Expensive Compared to Competitors

Except for the ancestry test, almost all of Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests are more expensive than similar services from competitors. So, if you’re trying to save money, you’d be better off looking elsewhere.

Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests run between a hundred and a couple hundred dollars, but the value really depends on the level of information you want. For example, a test could easily pay for itself if it helps you avoid taking a particular medication that could cause problems down the line. But, if you are just looking for top-line information regarding your health and fitness, you might want to consider a competitor with an all-encompassing test, like Vitagene.

Relatively Quick Support Response by Email

You can contact Dynamic DNA Labs by email or telephone, or visit them in person if you just happen to be passing through Missouri.

I sent in an email asking if the “DNA Art” was custom to individuals or just generic images of DNA. While it did take two days to get a response, I had sent the original email on a Saturday. Not only did the CEO and founder himself respond to my email, but I learned that the artwork is actually 100% custom to you, which is pretty cool and probably worth making a little clearer on the website.

The next day I also connected with a kind and helpful agent by telephone. The friendly representative was knowledgeable and able to answer my questions regarding the certifications of the in-house lab.

Serious Science and Some Fun Too!

Dynamic DNA Labs certainly seems to have all the right DNA testing credentials, not least its own accredited labs. And it offers some relatively unique tests in the area of pharmacogenetics.

It’s just a pity its separate tests cost so much compared with some competitors’ all-inclusive tests. However, in some cases the tests are much more detailed and – depending on what information you are looking for – could very well be worth the additional cost.

I did suggest at the outset that this serious scientific company also has a fun side. Its DNA Artwork includes a DNA Portrait that shows what your (or your cat or dog’s) unique sequenced DNA looks like in color. This does require you to send in a cheek swab, but surely a DNA styled coffee mug or mouse pad could make a great present or be a good conversation starter!

A Detailed Look at Dynamic DNA’s Health and Wellness Tests

Most of Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests are focused on health and wellness, to help you better understand yourself so that you can live a healthy life. All tests are private, confidential, and HIPAA-compliant, and the results are provided on an interactive dashboard on the company’s website.

Skin DNA Test

Your skin is made up of trillions of cells, working together to react to outside elements and keep your body safe. Knowing how to take care of those cells is essential, and this skin test offers insights into the skin-related information hidden within your DNA.

Personality DNA Test

Your DNA doesn’t just have an impact on your physical appearance, it can also influence your mental and personality traits. This DNA test from Dynamic DNA Labs sheds some light on those less visible characteristics.

Features:

Tests 30 genetic traits

Details mood and personality predispositions (e.g., agreeableness)

Lets you know whether you could be likely to experience addiction

Reports on how you process information (e.g., IQ, memory)

Looks at key behavioral traits (e.g., impulsiveness)

Pain Management PGx Test

Everyone’s body responds differently to pharmaceuticals – knowing what chemicals could work best for you, and what should potentially be avoided, could have huge effects on your life and comfort. This test examines the body’s responses to common medications that are used to treat pain.

Features:

Tests over 40 common medications, including opioids, NSAIDs, and muscle relaxants

Presents dosage recommendations

Suggests alternative treatments in cases of sensitivity

Helps determine the best pain management regimen for you

Testing could potentially be covered by health insurance

Cardiovascular Health PGx Test

This next pharmaceuticals test examines your body’s responses to common medications that are used to optimize cardiovascular health. Taking this test could be a good proactive measure if you know that you have family history of heart disease.

Features:

Tests over 30 common medications, including statins, anti-coagulants, and beta-blockers

Presents dosage recommendations

Suggests alternative treatments in cases of sensitivity

Helps determine the best pain management regimen for you

Testing could potentially be covered by health insurance

Mental Health PGx Test

This particular pharmaceuticals test examines the body’s responses to common medications used to optimize mental health. If you have had issues with anxiety, depression, or other mental disorders, this test could help you understand the best course of action and any precautions you should take.

Features:

Tests over 90 common medications, including SSRIs, anti-psychotics, and anti-anxiety drugs

Presents dosage recommendations

Suggests alternative treatments in cases of sensitivity

Helps determine the best pain management regimen for you

Testing could potentially be covered by health insurance

Comprehensive PGx Test

This catch-all package combines the three aforementioned pharmaceuticals tests for pain management, cardiovascular health, and mental health. Knowing how you are likely to react to certain medications before you actually need them could save you a ton of time, money, and heartache.

Features:

Tests over 150 common medications, including all the drugs in the pain management, cardiovascular health, and mental health tests

Includes additional medications such as urological agents and diabetes treatments

Similar Tests to Consider

Vitagene, tellmeGen, Helix, and CRI Genetics all offer similar health and wellness testing services, with Vitagene’s being particularly cheap yet informative. However, Dynamic DNA Laboratories uniquely offers some of these specific tests, especially when it comes to pharmacogenetics (i.e., how your body will likely react to common medications).

If you are considering a competitor, remember that some or all of the costs of a Dynamic DNA Labs’ test could be covered by your health insurance. This is something that few others offer.

Somewhat Expensive Compared to Competitors

Except for the ancestry test, almost all of Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests are more expensive than similar services from competitors. So, if you’re trying to save money, you’d be better off looking elsewhere.

Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests run between a hundred and a couple hundred dollars, but the value really depends on the level of information you want. For example, a test could easily pay for itself if it helps you avoid taking a particular medication that could cause problems down the line. But, if you are just looking for top-line information regarding your health and fitness, you might want to consider a competitor with an all-encompassing test, like Vitagene.

Relatively Quick Support Response by Email

You can contact Dynamic DNA Labs by email or telephone, or visit them in person if you just happen to be passing through Missouri.

I sent in an email asking if the “DNA Art” was custom to individuals or just generic images of DNA. While it did take two days to get a response, I had sent the original email on a Saturday. Not only did the CEO and founder himself respond to my email, but I learned that the artwork is actually 100% custom to you, which is pretty cool and probably worth making a little clearer on the website.

The next day I also connected with a kind and helpful agent by telephone. The friendly representative was knowledgeable and able to answer my questions regarding the certifications of the in-house lab.

Serious Science and Some Fun Too!

Dynamic DNA Labs certainly seems to have all the right DNA testing credentials, not least its own accredited labs. And it offers some relatively unique tests in the area of pharmacogenetics.

It’s just a pity its separate tests cost so much compared with some competitors’ all-inclusive tests. However, in some cases the tests are much more detailed and – depending on what information you are looking for – could very well be worth the additional cost.

I did suggest at the outset that this serious scientific company also has a fun side. Its DNA Artwork includes a DNA Portrait that shows what your (or your cat or dog’s) unique sequenced DNA looks like in color. This does require you to send in a cheek swab, but surely a DNA styled coffee mug or mouse pad could make a great present or be a good conversation starter!

A Detailed Look at Dynamic DNA’s Diet and Fitness Tests

Dynamic DNA Labs’ health and wellness tests are complemented by diet and fitness DNA tests that aim to determine your optimal nutrition needs and ideal workout regime. Whether you are looking to improve your lifestyle in general or reach certain weight goals, these tests would be a good place to start – and certainly less expensive than a personal trainer or nutritionist!

Nutrition DNA Test

Your DNA determines the nutrients you need in the quantities you need them. Since everyone’s DNA is different, your nutritional needs are also unique. The test can help you determine the types of nutrients you should be incorporating in your diet, and what you might be better off avoiding.

Features:

Tests 43 genetic traits

Details how you likely metabolize different nutrients

Suggests possible vitamin deficiencies

Outlines dietary tendencies such as overeating and sensitivity to caffeine

Creates an actionable DNA-derived diet plan

Fitness DNA Test

Your genetic makeup makes your body respond to exercise in a specific way. Dynamic DNA Labs’ DNA fitness test shows you which kinds of exercise are optimal for your body. Whether you want to lose weight or just be the healthiest version of yourself, this test is a good place to start.

Similar Tests to Consider

Like the health and wellness tests, Dynamic DNA Labs’ diet and fitness tests are typically more expensive than competitor companies like Vitagene and tellmeGen. But bear in mind that Dynamic DNA Labs does all its testing in-house and provides plenty of useful information in an easy-to-understand way via an interactive online dashboard.

Somewhat Expensive Compared to Competitors

Except for the ancestry test, almost all of Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests are more expensive than similar services from competitors. So, if you’re trying to save money, you’d be better off looking elsewhere.

Dynamic DNA Labs’ tests run between a hundred and a couple hundred dollars, but the value really depends on the level of information you want. For example, a test could easily pay for itself if it helps you avoid taking a particular medication that could cause problems down the line. But, if you are just looking for top-line information regarding your health and fitness, you might want to consider a competitor with an all-encompassing test, like Vitagene.

Relatively Quick Support Response by Email

You can contact Dynamic DNA Labs by email or telephone, or visit them in person if you just happen to be passing through Missouri.

I sent in an email asking if the “DNA Art” was custom to individuals or just generic images of DNA. While it did take two days to get a response, I had sent the original email on a Saturday. Not only did the CEO and founder himself respond to my email, but I learned that the artwork is actually 100% custom to you, which is pretty cool and probably worth making a little clearer on the website.

The next day I also connected with a kind and helpful agent by telephone. The friendly representative was knowledgeable and able to answer my questions regarding the certifications of the in-house lab.

Serious Science and Some Fun Too!

Dynamic DNA Labs certainly seems to have all the right DNA testing credentials, not least its own accredited labs. And it offers some relatively unique tests in the area of pharmacogenetics.

It’s just a pity its separate tests cost so much compared with some competitors’ all-inclusive tests. However, in some cases the tests are much more detailed and – depending on what information you are looking for – could very well be worth the additional cost.

I did suggest at the outset that this serious scientific company also has a fun side. Its DNA Artwork includes a DNA Portrait that shows what your (or your cat or dog’s) unique sequenced DNA looks like in color. This does require you to send in a cheek swab, but surely a DNA styled coffee mug or mouse pad could make a great present or be a good conversation starter!

Eric Michelson is a multi-disciplinary researcher, holding an Associate degree in Applied Science and a Bachelor's in Music. He has spent the past decade traveling, interacting with many of the diverse cultures around the world. He loves helping people tune into their roots, both physically or mentally, and he believes that exploring a family's unique history can uncover hidden opportunities for deep personal transformation.